Boys in Green World Beaters!

It was a night that memories are made of at the Aviva Stadium last night.

The Republic of Ireland beat world champions, Germany, by a goal to nil, in their penultimate match in Group D of the EURO 2016 qualifiers.

Stephen Ward, John O'Shea and Richard Keogh all made vital, last-ditch clearances, in the first half as Ireland managed to restrict Germany to just one shot on target in the opening forty five minutes.

Ireland lost Shay Given to injury just before the half-time break, Darren Randolph came on to deputise and he was instrumental in creating Ireland's goal on the 70th minute. A long ball through to substitute Shane Long saw the striker leave defenders in his wake before walloping the ball past Manuel Neuer and into the net.

On a night when Ireland showed guile and guts the result leaves them third in Group D, level on points with Poland, who they play on Sunday. The Boys in Green are guaranteed at least a play-off spot but could actually secure automatic qualification with a win or a two all draw (or higher) against Poland.

Ireland manager, Martin O'Neill, says he couldn't have asked for more from his players: "You would think that beating the Germans and not being beaten by them at all. Taking the world champions - that would be at least deserving of winning the tournament but that's not the case, we haven't even qualified. It's been a great effort, the players have shown great courage, great determination and some ability as well to conjure up the win."